Keyhole Housing Connection with Locking Catch for Tool-Free Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing device housing connection systems require tools and additional attachment parts for assembly and disassembly, lacking ease and mechanical stability, especially in electronic device systems.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing headed bolts and keyhole-shaped recesses with a movable locking element, allowing for tool-free disassembly and assembly without additional brackets, featuring a locking mechanism with a spring-loaded locking catch for automatic locking and unlocking, enabling flexible connection of multiple device housings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If housings are screwed or bolted together with additional attachment parts, then mechanical stability is improved, but assembly and disassembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the attachment part and the housing into a single integrated component. The attachment part is formed as one piece with the housing, eliminating the need for separate mounting brackets or fixing parts. This merging achieves both mechanical stability through the integrated connection and simplicity in assembly by reducing the number of components.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection system is divided into distinct functional segments: the first housing with protruding connection element, the second housing with recessed connection element, and the integrated attachment part. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while maintaining overall simplicity and mechanical stability.
2Stability of the object's composition
If traditional screwed or bolted connections are used, then mechanical stability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical screwing or bolting system with a snap-fit connection mechanism. The connection element in the first housing engages with the recessed element in the second housing through elastic deformation and geometric interlocking, eliminating the need for threaded fasteners, wrenches, or other mechanical assembly tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection system is designed to be self-aligning and self-securing. The geometric shapes of the connection elements guide the housing into proper alignment during assembly, and the elastic properties of the material enable automatic engagement without requiring external tools or complex assembly procedures.
3Stability of the object's composition
If additional mounting or fixing brackets are used, then mechanical stability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the attachment part with the housing structure itself, forming an integrated component rather than using separate mounting brackets. This reduces the total number of parts while maintaining the mechanical stability provided by the integrated connection elements.
4Strength
If permanent connections are used, then strength is improved, but adaptability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic connection elements with elastic properties that allow the housing to be connected and disconnected repeatedly. The elastic material enables the connection to maintain strength during use while allowing for easy release when needed, providing both mechanical strength and adaptability.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Provides a mechanically stable and easy-to-assemble/disassemble connection system for device housings, allowing for flexible use, transportation, and mobile applications without the need for tools or additional parts, ensuring a strong and backlash-free connection.
Implementation Method 1
The locking element is preloaded by a spring element such that the locking element is resiliently held in the locking position
Implementation Method 2
At least one elastic means is arranged in the recess, said elastic means being elastically deflected when the carrier body is inserted and snapping back in the fixing position
Implementation Method 3
The buffer element is configured to load the headed bolt with a frictional force to hold the headed bolt in the second section of the recess in a locking position
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4B
Figure 5A~5C
AI summary
The present invention provides a system for releaseably connecting a first device housing with a second device housing. The system comprises at least three connection units, wherein each of the connection units comprises a headed bolt and a corresponding keyhole-shaped recess. The keyhole-shaped recess is configured for receiving the headed bolt in such a manner that the headed bolt can be inserted into the recess in a first section and held in the recess in a second section. At least one of the connection units comprises a locking mechanism configured for locking the bolt in the second section of the recess. The locking mechanism comprises a movable locking element which is movable with respect to the headed bolt and configured to hold the headed bolt in the second section of the recess in a locking position. Alternatively, the locking mechanism comprises a flexible buffer element arranged in the second section of the keyhole-shaped recess, which is configured to load the headed bolt with a frictional force to hold the headed bolt in the second section of the recess in a locking position. Furthermore, the invention provides a corresponding connection arrangement that includes such a system.